What are Modal Verbs? Definition, List, Rules & Exercises for Class 10
| Modal Verb | Example | Function |
|---|---|---|
| Can | She can solve this sum. | Ability, Permission |
| Could | Could you open the window? | Polite Request, Past Ability |
| May | May I enter the room? | Permission, Possibility |
| Must | You must obey rules. | Necessity, Obligation |
| Should | You should rest now. | Advice, Suggestion |
| Might | It might rain soon. | Possibility |
What Are Modal Verbs?
Modal verbs are auxiliary verbs that show ability, permission, possibility, or necessity. They are always used with a main verb. In Class 10 English grammar, common modals include can, could, may, might, must, and should. Using the right modal helps you express ideas clearly in sentences.
Key Rules for Using Modals
- Modals do not change form for ‘he/she/it’ or other subjects.
- They are always followed by the base form of the main verb.
- Negative form is made by adding “not” after the modal: “should not”.
- No ‘to’ between modal and main verb except in “ought to”.
- Modals can show polite requests: “Could you help me?”
Differences Between Common Modals
- 'Can' shows present ability; 'could' is used for past ability or polite requests.
- 'May' gives formal permission; 'might' often expresses weaker possibility.
- 'Must' shows strong necessity; 'should' gives advice or mild obligation.
Practical Examples for Class 10 Usage
- Ability: I can ride a bicycle.
- Permission: May I borrow your pen?
- Advice: You should finish your homework.
- Necessity: You must wear a uniform to school.
- Possibility: She might visit us this evening.
Modals Exercise for Class 10 with Answers
Use these sentences to test your knowledge of modal verbs. Select or write the correct modal for each sentence and check the answer key below.
- You must bring your admit card to the exam.
- Could you please turn off the lights?
- It might be cold tonight.
- We can meet after class.
- You should eat healthy food daily.
Common Mistakes Students Make with Modals
- Using “to” after a modal (wrong: “can to go”, right: “can go”).
- Choosing the wrong modal for requests (“Can you” is informal; “Could you” is more polite).
- Mixing up “must” and “have to”.
- Adding ‘-s’ for third person (modals never take ‘-s’: “He can swim,” not “He cans swim”).
- Forgetting that modals are always followed by the base verb: “should go”, not “should goes”.
Modals Worksheet for Class 10 (Download)
Practice further with Vedantu’s downloadable PDF worksheet on modal verbs for Class 10. It covers MCQs, fill-in-the-blanks, and sentence corrections with answer keys for self-check. Download Modals Practice Worksheet PDF
How Modals Help in CBSE Exams and Everyday English
Using modals accurately is essential for CBSE grammar sections, as well as for effective writing, speaking, and competitive exams. Practicing these exercises with answers helps you avoid common errors and express yourself more confidently at school and in real life.
Summary: Modals for Class 10
Modals are helping verbs that express permission, necessity, possibility, or ability. Knowing when and how to use them helps in exams, school assignments, and daily communication. Regular practice builds grammar confidence and improves your performance in CBSE English and beyond.
- See more at: Modal Verbs
- Learn about Helping Verbs
FAQs on Modals Exercises for Class 10 – Rules, Examples & Practice Worksheet
1. What are modal verbs in English grammar, and how do they function in a sentence?
Modal verbs are auxiliary verbs that express necessity, ability, permission, possibility, or obligation. They always accompany a main verb, modifying its meaning to convey the speaker's attitude or the degree of certainty about the action. For example, in "I can swim," 'can' expresses ability. In "You must finish your homework," 'must' expresses obligation.
2. How can modals exercises for Class 10 help students prepare for exams?
Regular practice with modals exercises helps students master the correct usage of these verbs in various contexts. This improves their grammatical accuracy and boosts confidence during exams. The exercises help identify common errors and reinforce understanding of nuanced meanings expressed through modals.
3. Where can I find a reliable modals worksheet for Class 10?
Vedantu provides reliable and syllabus-aligned modals worksheets for Class 10. These worksheets offer comprehensive practice exercises and answer keys to aid self-study and exam preparation. Look for resources specifically designed for the CBSE curriculum.
4. What types of questions are included in modals exercises for Class 10 with answers?
Modals exercises typically include a variety of question types, such as:
- Fill-in-the-blanks: Completing sentences with the appropriate modal verb.
- Multiple-choice questions (MCQs): Selecting the correct modal verb from given options.
- Sentence correction: Identifying and correcting errors in sentences involving modals.
- Sentence transformation: Rewriting sentences using different modals to convey varied meanings.
5. How often should students practice modals exercise for Class 10 to improve their grammar?
Consistent practice is key. Aim for at least 2-3 sessions per week to build fluency and accuracy with modal verbs. Short, focused practice sessions are more effective than infrequent long ones.
6. Are modals worksheet Class 10 exercises aligned with the CBSE syllabus?
Yes, Vedantu's modals worksheets are meticulously designed to align with the current CBSE syllabus for Class 10 English. They cover all essential modal verbs and their applications as per the curriculum.
7. What are the benefits of using modals exercises for Class 10 with answers for self-study?
Self-study using modals exercises with answers offers several advantages:
- Immediate feedback: Students can instantly check their understanding and identify areas needing improvement.
- Independent learning: Promotes self-reliance and active learning.
- Targeted practice: Allows students to focus on specific aspects of modal verb usage.
- Personalized pace: Students can work at their own speed and revisit challenging concepts.
8. Where can I find additional resources for modals exercises for Class 10 with answers?
Besides Vedantu, you can explore other reputable online educational platforms and textbooks for additional modals exercises. Look for resources that provide detailed explanations and a variety of question types.
9. How do modals exercise Class 10 materials contribute to language proficiency?
Mastering modal verbs significantly enhances language proficiency. It enables more precise and nuanced expression, leading to improved communication skills in both written and spoken English. Understanding modals contributes to a deeper understanding of English grammar and sentence structure.
10. What is the difference between 'can' and 'could'?
'Can' expresses present ability or permission. 'Could' expresses past ability, polite requests, or possibility. For example: "I can play the piano." (present ability) "Could you please pass the salt?" (polite request)
11. What is the difference between 'may' and 'might'?
Both express possibility, but 'may' suggests a greater likelihood than 'might'. 'May' can also be used to ask for permission. For example: "It may rain later." (higher probability) "It might snow tomorrow." (lower probability)
12. What is the difference between 'must' and 'should'?
'Must' expresses strong obligation or necessity. 'Should' expresses advice, suggestion, or weaker obligation. For example: "You must complete this assignment." (strong obligation) "You should exercise regularly." (advice)
